Freedom Project West Cumbria is appealing for funds in order to continue their service.

Vicky Pike from the organisation said: "We are trying to raise awareness in our community that abuse is a hidden problem, it is happening to people in our own community and there are many local families, including children, on our own doorstep that need help and support."

"We know that the funding environment is difficult for many at this time and our main financial challenge is ensuring sufficient income to maintain our current services."

Due to the outbreak of Covid-19, they temporarily closed their office on March 24 and moved all their face to face services, online.

1-1 counselling for victims, perpetrators and CYP as well as their women’s group and children’s groups are now delivered via telephone, skype, zoom or what’s app.

Vicky added: "We still have rent and running costs to pay for our main centre and currently need to raise £15,000 to secure funds to allow us to continue to deliver our vital service."

She said: "We are looking at local business to consider making donations and are looking to introduce community fundraising, asking the general community to fundraise on our behalf.

Currently they are supported by Cumbria Community Foundation, Francis C Scott Charitable Trust, The Police and Crime Commissioner of Cumbria, BBC Children in Need and Sellafield Ltd.

Any individual or business that can help with fundraising can contact them via their facebook page at The Freedom Project/West Cumbria Domestic Violence Support